There's nothing like starting your morning off at a classic diner to keep your mood buoyed and your stomach full for the day. Nestled in crannies throughout the Boston area, some of these nostalgic joints may have escaped your attention. The next time you're craving comfort food served up in a home-like environment, it's worth hunting down these 12 great little diners:
1. Galley Diner (South Boston)
Whether you’re in the mood for a savory corned beef hash or want to indulge your sweet tooth with blueberry pancakes, this place will deliver a breakfast that’s sure to make you smile - it’s even Anthony Bourdain approved! With only 12 stools and four tables, you may be in for a wait, but it's time well spent. You’ll find Galley Diner at 11 P Street, South Boston, MA 02127.
2. Mike’s City Diner (South End)
This Boston mainstay has been featured on Food Network for its signature Pilgrim sandwich. Other menu hits include the waffles, corned beef hash and, if you stop by later in the day, the meatloaf. Bring your appetite and cash. Mike’s City Diner is located at 1714 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118.
3. The Wheelhouse Diner (Quincy)
No frills, just killer corned beef hash and stuffed French toast that’ll make you moan! It’s worth standing in line to score a seat at this old school, dinky diner. The Wheelhouse Diner is located at 453 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02171.
4. Wilson’s Diner (Waltham)
From the outside, Wilson’s is the quintessential diner and inside, it’s equally old school. Keep it simple with a hearty breakfast of down home food like pancakes and bacon. This diner is located at 507 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02452.
5. Mul’s Diner (South Boston)
This hole-in-the-wall joint dishes up Crème Brulee French toast to die for, served in a retro environment complete with plenty of red vinyl and checkerboard décor. Mul’s Diner is located at 75 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127.
6. Deluxe Town Diner (Watertown)
Deluxe Town Diner has been going strong since 1947. There’s enough comfort food here to soothe whatever ails you, and the dishes feature lots of locally sourced ingredients. That makes pancakes and French toast healthy, right? The diner can be found at 627 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472.
7. South Street Diner (Downtown)
No matter the time of day, you can grab a meal at South Street Diner because it’s open 24/7 – and that's rare in Boston! This authentic diner was built in 1947 and remains delightfully retro. The Boston cream pancakes here caught the attention of Food Network, and you can’t go wrong with a shake or the Eggs Benedict. Head to 178 Kneeland Street, Boston, MA 02111 and see for yourself.
8. The Breakfast Club (Allston)
If you’re a John Hughes fan, a visit to this 80s-themed diner is a must. If you’re into a hearty breakfast (like the Basket Case) or want to try a cinnamon bun waffle, you definitely should check this wonderfully kitschy joint out. You’ll find this diner at 270 Western Avenue in Allston.
9. Capitol Diner (Lynn)
No matter what you order here, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome and a tasty meal, from the omelets to the breakfast plates. Capitol Diner also dishes up a hefty side of nostalgia – it’s been around since 1928! This cash-only joint is located at 431 Union Street, Lynn, MA 01901.
10. Forest Hills Diner (Jamaica Plain)
If you want bang for your buck, stop in at Forest Hills Diner, where you’ll find generous portions of scrumptious food, low prices, and plenty of locals in the know. Try the breakfast specials! Forest Hills Diner is located at 3696 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.
11. My Diner (Melrose)
For a bargain breakfast, it’s tough to beat My Diner – they even deliver if you’re feeling too lazy to roll out of bed! The menu is extremely diverse, offering everything from breakfast sandwiches to pasta dinners. You’ll find yourself singing the praises of the French toast here, and if you stop by later in the day, the turkey dinner is always a good choice. My Diner is located at 399 Main Street, Melrose, MA 02176.
12. Kelly’s Diner (Somerville)
This 1953 diner has appeared on Food Network, and its vintage style will have you feeling at home in no time. Kelly’s offers a great breakfast and is also popular for its tasty turkey dinners. You’ll find it at 674 Broadway Street, Somerville, MA 02144.
Anyone else craving pancakes about now?
Let us know which Boston-area diner (on or off this list) is your go-to spot at the Only In Boston Facebook page.
You may also be interested in our past article: These 8 Amazing Breakfast Spots In Boston Will Make Your Morning Epic.
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